Cat Breeds

American Shorthair

Description / History

If you are looking for a cat that will be a gentle companion, a playmate for your children, and a full-fledged member of the family, look no further than the American Shorthair. This breed is known for its longevity, robust health, amiability with children and dogs, good looks and quiet disposition.

You will find American Shorthairs to be low maintenance cats. These beautiful cats are not only lovely to look at, but are healthy, easy going and affectionate. On average, American Shorthairs live fifteen to twenty years with only annual veterinary checkups. They achieve full growth at approximately three to four years old. Males are significantly larger than females with the mature males weighing eleven to fifteen pounds and the mature females weighing eight to twelve pounds.

Known as a cat of many colors, the American Shorthair comes in over eighty different colors and patterns ranging from the striking brown patched tabby to the glistening blue-eyed white, the beautiful shaded cameo to the flashy calico van, and many colors in between. The most common American Shorthair color is the silver tabby with dense black markings set on a sterling silver background. You may have seen this handsome cat featured in television and magazine advertising or in the latest feature at your local cinema. Always consistently in the top ten most popular breeds of cat, the American Shorthair is truly a star in the feline world.

Personality

The American Shorthair is described as healthy, versatile, friendly, intelligent, robust, good-natured and independent.

Weight

9-12 lbs.

Eyes

Some associations prefer the American Shorthairs eyes to be large and round. Others prefer large and wide with upper lid shaped like half an almond, lower lid shaped in a fully rounded curve.

Coat

Short, thick, even, and hard in texture; dense enough to protect from moisture and cold.

Associations

The American Shorthair is accepted by all North American cat registries.